Hi all,
Long-time reader, first-time poster. I finally decided to make a post because I could use all the advice and feedback I can get.
I've been overweight for years, with my weight constantly fluctuating up and down. At 26, I've decided it's time to take control and make a lasting change instead of another temporary effort.
Resistance Training
Current Targets
After two weeks, I'm currently sitting around 222 lbs. I understand that a significant portion of this is likely water weight and glycogen depletion from improved nutrition, increased activity, and the Tirzepatide, but it's still motivating to see the scale moving in the right direction.
I also completed baseline labs before starting everything and will attach those along with my starting photos.
My goal isn't to become a bodybuilder or get extremely jacked. I would like to achieve a lean, healthy, athletic physique that I can maintain long-term.
Proposed Protocol
After the cycle, I would:
If I were to add anything, it would most likely be:
If I decide to incorporate any AAS, the intention would be to run an appropriate cycle length, monitor health markers, complete a proper PCT, and reassess afterward.
The primary purpose would be preserving muscle mass during a calorie deficit rather than chasing maximum muscle growth.
For my age, they seem lower than I expected, but I'm not sure whether they're actually problematic or simply within a normal range.
P.S. pictures are from before peps will post current pictures later today
Long-time reader, first-time poster. I finally decided to make a post because I could use all the advice and feedback I can get.
I've been overweight for years, with my weight constantly fluctuating up and down. At 26, I've decided it's time to take control and make a lasting change instead of another temporary effort.
Current Stats
- 26-year-old male
- 5'7"
- Currently around 222 lbs
- Estimated body fat: 30%+ (just a guess)
Current Protocol
Tirzepatide- Started 2 weeks ago
- 2.5 mg weekly
- 1 mg Tesamorelin / 300 mcg Ipamorelin nightly
- Taken several hours after my last meal
- 5 days on, 2 days off
- Tried during Week 1
- 5 mg weekly split into two doses (Monday and Thursday)
- Caused significant fatigue, so I discontinued it for Week 2
- 400 mcg every morning during Week 1
Training
I'm currently averaging 10,000–12,000+ steps per day, with some days being even higher.Resistance Training
- Full-body workouts 3x per week
- Heavy compound movements
- Focused on progressive overload
- Dedicated cardio sessions 2x per week
- Planning to add at least 30 minutes of incline walking 5x per week
Nutrition
I'm still dialing everything in. The appetite suppression from Tirzepatide made it a little difficult initially, but I'm getting more consistent.Current Targets
- 2,000 calories per day
- 200g protein
- 50g fat
- Remaining calories from carbs
- Chicken
- Lean beef
- Jasmine rice
- Potatoes
- Keto bread
- Keto tortillas
- Fat-free dairy
- Pepsi Zero
- Electrolytes
Progress So Far
Before starting peptides, I was around 236 lbs.After two weeks, I'm currently sitting around 222 lbs. I understand that a significant portion of this is likely water weight and glycogen depletion from improved nutrition, increased activity, and the Tirzepatide, but it's still motivating to see the scale moving in the right direction.
I also completed baseline labs before starting everything and will attach those along with my starting photos.
Goals
At my current body fat level, I understand that the priority should simply be losing body fat and building a solid foundation.My goal isn't to become a bodybuilder or get extremely jacked. I would like to achieve a lean, healthy, athletic physique that I can maintain long-term.
Potential Changes I'm Considering
Retatrutide- Considering switching from Tirzepatide to Retatrutide
- Starting at 2 mg weekly
- Continue current protocol
Testosterone
I'm considering adding a low-dose testosterone cycle primarily for muscle retention while dieting.Proposed Protocol
- Testosterone Cypionate
- 80–100 mg per week
- Split into two injections (Monday morning and Thursday evening)
After the cycle, I would:
- Come off completely
- Give my body around 3 weeks to transition
- Run a 4-week PCT
- Get follow-up bloodwork
- Reassess where my hormone levels, body composition, and overall health stand before making any future decisions
hCG
If I decide to run testosterone, I would likely include:- hCG at 125 IU EOD
Thoughts on Additional Anabolics
I'm undecided on this at the moment.If I were to add anything, it would most likely be:
- Primobolan, or
- Anavar
If I decide to incorporate any AAS, the intention would be to run an appropriate cycle length, monitor health markers, complete a proper PCT, and reassess afterward.
The primary purpose would be preserving muscle mass during a calorie deficit rather than chasing maximum muscle growth.
Hormone Questions
I'd appreciate feedback on my lab work, particularly my testosterone levels.For my age, they seem lower than I expected, but I'm not sure whether they're actually problematic or simply within a normal range.
PCT / Support Medications
Planning to keep the following available if needed:- Enclomiphene (primary PCT)
- Anastrozole (on hand in case estrogen-related side effects arise)
- Nolvadex (on hand if needed)
Questions for the Community
I'd appreciate any feedback on:- My overall plan and priorities
- Whether I should stay on Tirzepatide or switch to Retatrutide
- The Tesamorelin/Ipamorelin protocol
- Whether testosterone makes sense at my current body fat percentage
- Thoughts on Anavar vs Primobolan for muscle retention during a cut
- My testosterone levels based on my labs
- Anything you would add, remove, or change
P.S. pictures are from before peps will post current pictures later today
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